The Best Lingerie-Dressing Pieces To Buy Now
From daring bodysuits to sultry slip dresses, these are the underwear-as-outerwear styles that will take you from day to night, says BIBBY SOWRAY
There’s something eternally thrilling about lingerie dressing. Its beauty lies in its bold, subversive mood – the playful nature of usually-hidden details being on show, the juxtaposition of delicate lace and silk worn alongside hardier daywear fabrics, and the sense of empowerment these pieces deliver. Plus, it’s eminently versatile – running the gamut from delicate romance to grunge-inflected sultriness. Whenever it rolls back onto the style agenda (which is often, thanks to its timeless appeal), it’s a look that never loses its impact. This season, lingerie dressing is more striking than ever – subtle flashes of eyelash lace are switched out for unapologetic, intentional pieces that make a statement.
By nature, lingerie dressing lends itself perfectly to evening, thanks to its luxe fabrics. The classic slip dress is elevated by the addition of lace – see JW Anderson’s darkly elegant take, trimmed with scalloped lace, or Christopher Kane’s ’90s-inflected ‘Be Mine’ dress, as the perfect examples. Take your cue from the street-style set and keep the look simple with barely-there heels, minimal accessories and, for cooler evenings, a long-line coat thrown over the top for the chicest kind of ‘I woke up like this’ look. London-based Nensi Dojaka’s figure-skimming pieces are a red-carpet fixture – try the brand’s gathered cutout bodysuit with high-shine leather pants, and layer beneath an oversized blazer for effortless cool.
Lingerie dressing needn’t be reserved for after-dark hours – a few styling tweaks make it perfect for day, too. Khaite’s ‘Lori’ bustier top lends itself to peeking out from beneath a loosely buttoned shirt, as does Stella McCartney’s lace-paneled camisole. Team with worn-in, high-waisted denim for the perfect high-low approach to the trend. Or take LoveShackFancy’s sugary-hued ‘Fayette’ slip skirt and wear with a simple T-shirt or cropped cardigan, and sneakers or sandals, for a more romantic, vintage mood.